Question about index of refraction

Click For Summary
The index of refraction can be expressed as n = √(εrμr), where εr is the relative permittivity and μr is the relative permeability. Although the equation does not explicitly include wavelength (λ), both permittivity and permeability are functions of wavelength. This means that while the equation appears static, the values of εr and μr change with different wavelengths of light. Consequently, the index of refraction is wavelength-dependent due to these underlying properties. Understanding this relationship is crucial for accurate applications in optics and material science.
physics user1
according to wikiedia i can express the index as n= √(εrμr)
but i also know that the index of refraction depends of the wavelenght but i don't see any λ in the equation, so ... why?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Science news on Phys.org
The permeability and permittivity will generally depend on wavelength.
 

Similar threads

Graduate Blackbody Radiation and Complex Refractive Index
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Undergrad Outer layer refractive index - total internal refection on waveguide
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Graduate Reflectivity with gradient in refractive index
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Graduate Interpretation of a complex angle of refraction
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Undergrad Energy Redistribution in Lorentz Oscillator Model with Pure Radiation Damping
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Light speed and refractive index
  • · Replies 25 ·
Replies
25
Views
3K
Kramers-Kronig relation for refractive index
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
Why does the amount of Refraction depend on wavelength?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
Evanescent and Gradient force on an optical waveguide
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
180 degree phase shift of reflected light
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K